Introduction of a WorkMate grade (auto) for the 4×4 double cab-chassis.

Toyota’s sweeping changes offer the ability for 4×4 SR double-cab pick-up buyers to specify the in-demand features of satellite navigation and alloy wheels for $2,000 – without the need to step up to the top-of-the-line SR5.

Overall, Toyota has unveiled 10 new variants which effectively replace 10 slower-selling variants, including V6-powered vehicles that account for fewer than half of one per cent of total HiLux sales.

The moves are significant as HiLux continues to set new sales records with consumer demand up 13.7 per cent to the end of August. It is well placed to become Australia’s best-selling vehicle for the second year in a row and is the only vehicle of its type to have taken the title.

Interior of the 4×4 SR5 double cab shown

Toyota Australia’s executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the realignment will further strengthen the sales potential of HiLux, which has topped the market in each of the past six months and has broken monthly sales records on four occasions this year.

“We are determined to ensure a strong final quarter in 2017; but these moves are not about short-term gains, they are the result of detailed analysis of buyer trends and feedback from dealers over the past two years,” Mr Cramb said.

“It is clear that HiLux buyers increasingly want the convenience of an automatic transmission, so we now offer 17 self-shifters compared with 12 previously,” he said.

“Last year – for the first time – automatics accounted for more than half of all HiLux sales and this year the proportion has risen to almost 60 per cent and we expect it to increase further.

“We are also experiencing greater-than-expected demand for the two-wheel-drive Hi-Rider, so we have expanded our competitively priced offerings from three to five.

“The Hi-Rider appeals to buyers who do not require serious off-road capability, but appreciate the same rugged looks and imposing ground clearance as a 4×4 HiLux.

“All the new variants have been introduced for specific reasons; for example, SR buyers have told us they would prefer the durability and convenience of a PVC floor covering rather than carpet.

“We have reintroduced a 4×4 WorkMate double cab-chassis for those who want a value-for-money vehicle that gives them the flexibility to add a purpose-built tray that suits their needs.

“For similar reasons, we have brought back the SR extra cab-chassis in manual guise, which was available with the previous generation, and – for the first time – added an automatic version.”

The updated HiLux line-up goes on sale officially from October 6; in the meantime, Toyota has improved capability, convenience and durability of its existing SR and SR5 range with minimal price changes.

SR 4×4 double cabs now have the inclusion of downhill assist control, PVC flooring and black door handles.SR5 prices have the addition of LED foglamps.

SR extra cab pick-ups and SR5 variants now have a tailgate lock.

Rear air vents have been added to 4×4 SR5 double cab and 4×2 Hi-Rider variants.

The number of HiLux variants remains at 31 with 23 being genuine one-tonners – all 4×2 variants and all 4×4 single and extra cabs. SR5 is the highest-selling grade and accounts for more than half of all HiLux 4×4 sales.

HiLux offers the torque, driveability and fuel economy of two four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines displacing 2.4 and 2.8 litres. In 4×4 and Hi-Rider variants, the 2.8 delivers maximum power of 130kW at 3400rpm and peak torque of 450Nm at 1600-2400rpm (auto) or 420Nm (manual).

The volume-selling SR5 4×4 double cab is rated at 7.6 litres/100km* for the manual and 8.5 litres/100km for the auto.

The 2.4 turbo-diesel engine is offered on WorkMate models, delivering 110kW @ 3400rpm. Torque is 343Nm @ 1400-2800rpm for manual 4×2 single and double cabs. For the 4×2 WorkMate double cab automatic and all 4×4 variants, it offers 400Nm from 1600-2000rpm.

Fuel economy varies from as low as 7.1 litres to 7.7 litres/100km* in manual guise and from 8.3 to 8.5 litres/100km* with the six-speed automatic. Emissions are as low as 186 grams/km* for the 4×2 WorkMate double cab.

HiLux is also available with a 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine on 4×2 WorkMate single and double cabs. It delivers 122kW @ 5200rpm and 245Nm @ 4000rpm with fuel economy as low as 10.4 litres/100km*.

HiLux is in its 20th year in a row as Australia’s best-selling commercial vehicle and has been Australia’s top-selling four-wheel drive for the past 12 years. In 2018, the HiLux nameplate will mark its 50th anniversary in this country.

The new range is covered by Toyota Service Advantage capped-price servicing at $180 per service (petrol) and $240 per service (diesel).

For more information regarding the HiLux, please contact Bridge Toyota in Darwin or Palmerston

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* Results achieved in test conditions. Actual results may vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle condition and options/accessories fitted. Fuel consumption data provided for comparison purposes only. Source: ADR 81/02 combined cycle.
**Towing capacity is subject to regulatory requirements, towbar and vehicle design and towing equipment limitations.
^Payload weights are nominal and vary depending on options and accessories and tray/body type.
#Manufacturer’s list prices and are provided for media purposes only and do not include statutory charges or other on-road costs.
^^ Maximum payable for standard scheduled servicing (normal operating conditions) until first of 3 years or 60,000km (whichever occurs first, up to the first 6 services). Excludes government & rental vehicles. Contact your Toyota dealer or go to toyota.com.au/advantage for other exclusions and eligibility.